NOAA weather modeling hits key milestone with Rapid Refresh Forecast System debut

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has launched its Rapid Refresh Forecast System (RRFS), marking a significant advancement in weather forecasting. This new system replaces outdated regional modeling systems, including the North American Mesoscale (NAM), to provide more accurate and earlier forecasts. The RRFS is designed to improve predictions for high-altitude smoke, ground-level particulates affecting human health and visibility, and includes NOAA's first Hourly Wildfire Potential forecast.